Azusa Pacific University revealed its 2026 men's soccer schedule, a 19‑match lineup that blends an early exhibition with a full regular season of conference play. The campaign will see the Cougars compete in 12 home fixtures at the Cougar Soccer Complex, while also traveling to face a host of Southern California institutions.
Building Local Rivalries
The schedule is punctuated by a series of matches against longtime regional opponents, including Occidental, Caltech, Chapman, La Verne, Redlands, Whittier, Claremont‑Mudd‑Scripps, Pomona‑Pitzer, and California Lutheran. Notably, the Cougars will meet Occidental twice during the season, underscoring the program's intent to deepen local rivalries as it settles into its new Division III environment.
The season opens with an exhibition match against Westmont on August 22, followed by home appearances against Hope International, Lewis & Clark, and Life Pacific in September. The team will also make trips to Whittier and Caltech during the same month, setting the tone for a competitive schedule that blends home‑field advantage with challenging away games.
October Outlook and Season Finale
October brings a slate of contests against Chapman, La Verne, California Lutheran, and Claremont‑Mudd‑Scripps, as well as home games versus La Sierra and Bethesda. The regular season culminates with a road contest at UC Santa Cruz on October 31, providing a final test before the conference tournament.
Head Coach Dave Blomquist expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming schedule, highlighting the blend of local rivalries and competitive matchups as a catalyst for growth. "We’re excited about the challenges ahead," Blomquist said, "and the opportunity to showcase our program on a broader stage as we transition to Division III."